The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has confirmed that its newly elected president, Abubakar Yakubu, was involved in a tragic road accident in Lagos that claimed the life of a child and left the child’s mother injured.
Former AGN president Emeka Rollas, in a statement on Thursday, said the incident occurred on Tuesday, December 9, after Yakubu’s vehicle suffered a sudden mechanical failure.
“The Actors Guild of Nigeria is deeply saddened to confirm the involvement of the National President elect Mr. Abubakar Yakubu, in a tragic road accident that occurred on Tuesday 9th December in Lagos. The accident, resulting from an unexpected mechanical brake failure, leading to a collision that unfortunately claimed the life of a child and injured the child’s mother, who is currently receiving medical care,” he said.
Rollas added that Yakubu immediately surrendered himself to authorities.
“Immediately following the incident, Mr. Yakubu cooperated fully with law enforcement and emergency responders as a law abiding citizen. The Guild Leadership has since visited the affected family to offer condolences, emotional support, and solidarity in this painful moment,” he said.
Yakubu was said to be physically unharmed but “deeply shaken and heartbroken” by the tragedy.
Rollas also appealed for restraint from the public.
“Accidents are painful reminders of life’s fragility and are no respecter of age, status, tribe, or creed. As a Guild built on unity and compassion, we call on all members, industry stakeholders, and the public to join us in offering prayers and support to all affected, and to refrain from speculation or divisive commentary during this sensitive period,” the statement read.
Despite the guild’s clarification, online reports on Wednesday indicated that Yakubu was taken into police custody at Barracks Police Station, Surulere, as part of an ongoing investigation into the incident. Police have yet to issue a formal statement on possible charges.
Yakubu was elected AGN president only days earlier after defeating Rita Daniels in a tight race, winning 116 votes against her 113. His emergence was notable as he became the first Northerner to lead the guild since its establishment in 1998.
